One of the objectives of DSWA is to make sure people with Down syndrome, their families and the wider community have the information they need. 

Most importantly, new parents and their initial contacts need information and support without delay and wherever they might be. 

 The Web is one sure way of getting a current copy of our New Parent Information Folder quickly. The on-line version provides a search tool so you can find information quickly if you have specific questions.  

The New Parent Support Folder

If you are a relatively new parent of a child with Down syndrome contact the Association for a talk or visit that will best meet your immediate needs. You may also wish to read our New Parent Support Folder available here in Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format or request a hard copy from the Association. While this addresses the facts and issues of Down syndrome, it is not intended as a substitute for person to person contact where there is a need for personal support.

What does it contain?

1. The simple facts relating to what Down syndrome is and how it is identified.
2. The possible physical and medical implications of the syndrome.
3. Places where parents can obtain help or further information.
4. A variety of comments and feelings from parents of children with Down syndrome.
5. Valuable practical help and advice regarding feeding, medical checks, coping with telling relatives and friends, and so on.

Please note that this is quite a large document (as indicated by the numbers in brackets) and may take a few minutes to download if you have a slow line. Please also note that the side tool bar is available to take you quickly through various sections of the folder.  The binoculars icons on your tool bar are handy for text searches within each section.

Contact us for copies of our brochures:  'Babies with Down Syndrome' and 'Childhood Medical Checklist'

What does it cost?

A hard copy of The New Parent Support Folder is free of charge to new parents and at current cost to professionals and others (currently the price is $30.00 + GST + postage).

The on-line copy contains the same information as the hard copy folder version (but without pamphlets and forms) and is free of charge if you are on the internet. The cost of this internet service is paid for by volunteers and donations to the Association (all donations gratefully accepted).

Where do I get it?

Information about the folder is sent to all maternity hospitals and hospitals with maternity units in the state of WA.  Major metropolitan hospitals and some country hospitals keep a copy in their library or in the Social Work Department.  You may ask your hospital for a loan while you are there or contact the Down Syndrome WA for your own personal copy. 

Phone:  (08) 9368 4002  or  Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it